Statistics (MSc)

Award
Master of Science
Typical Offer
2:1 degree View full entry requirements
Duration
1 year
Course Type
Full-time
Campus
Highfield
Next course starts
September 2025

About this course

On this UK master’s degree in statistics, you’ll study statistical theory and methods and how to apply them. The MSc Statistics programme will prepare you for a career in statistics, data science or related fields.

University of Southampton is ranked 9th in the UK for Statistics and Operational Research (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024).

On MSc Statistics, you’ll explore practical problems typically found when collecting and analysing scientific data and improve your communication skills. 

These practices will prepare you for a future career as a statistician. Our graduates go on to work in many industries such as, banking, insurance, pharmaceutical and in government bodies.

You’ll study core modules and choose what topics you want to study in depth, we offer modules in statistical theory and real world application of statistics. Optional module topics include:

  • machine learning
  • flexible regression
  • design of experiments
  • clinical trials
  • introduction to Python

As part of your study you'll use statistical software, time management and basic research skills as well as boost your analytical skills. 

This master’s degree in statistics will help you take that next step in developing a career or continue onto PhD study. There is a wide choice of career opportunities for qualified statisticians, for example in banking/insurance, in the pharmaceutical industry, or in government bodies.

We regularly review our courses to ensure and improve quality. This course may be revised as a result of this. Any revision will be balanced against the requirement that the student should receive the educational service expected. Find out why, when, and how we might make changes.

Our courses are regulated in England by the Office for Students (OfS).

Course lead

This course is led by Dr Chieh-Hsi Wu. Chieh-Hsi is a lecturer in statistics, and her research interests include statistical modelling. View Chieh-Hsi's staff profile for more information.

Related pathways

We offer two pathways on this master’s degree in statistics: our default Methods and Applications pathway, and a Data Science pathway.

Our Data Science pathway has a stronger focus on computational skills and methods for rigorous statistical data analysis. Here you'll develop key knowledge and skills in:

  • machine learning
  • programming languages such as R and Python
  • data visualisation

You can find out more about the differences between the two pathways in the 'Course structure' section.

Course location

This course is based at Highfield.

Awarding body

This qualification is awarded by the University of Southampton.

Download the Course Description Document

The Course Description Document details your course overview, your course structure and how your course is taught and assessed.